There’s not a lot of time for chit-chat – even for his former employer.

The Detroit Pistons star – preparing to face the Los Angeles Clippers for the first time at Staples Center since being traded a year ago – didn’t make time to speak with Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, who was waiting for Griffin to conclude his warmup routine.

Shortly after the scene witnessed by Buha, the Detroit Free Press witnessed Griffin sprint through a Staples Center hallway and into the visitor’s locker room – part of his normal routine.

As Blake finished his warmup, Steve Ballmer was on the sideline watching and waiting. When Ballmer saw Griffin finish, he started walking towards him. Blake saw Ballmer and sped up, running away to the Pistons locker room as Ballmer yelled “Blake! Blake!” with his hand out.

But emotions are running high since it’s no secret Griffin disliked how after signing him to a five-year, $171-million contract, calling him a “Clipper for Life,” he was traded to the Pistons months later.

Pistons coach Dwane Casey noted the similarities when he returned to Toronto this season – a night that was victorious for the Pistons against the franchise that fired Casey last offseason.

Jan. 28: Pacers mascot Boomer shows off the Borg Warner Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Indianapolis 500, before the Pacers play the Warriors at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Brian Spurlock, USA TODAY Sports

Jan. 28: IndyCar drivers, from left, James Hinchcliffe, Will Power and Ed Carpenter pose with the Borg Warner Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Indianapolis 500, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse before the Pacers play the Warriors. Brian Spurlock, USA TODAY Sports